Exploring the Double Dive to South Solitary Island in Coffs Harbour
Thinking about exploring the underwater world around Coffs Harbour? We’ve come across a highly-rated tour that promises not just two dives but a substantial encounter with marine biodiversity—the Double Dive to South Solitary Island offered by Jetty Dive Centre. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 25 reviews, it’s clear this experience has captured the hearts of divers looking to see the best of what the Solitary Islands Marine Park has to offer.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guides and small group sizes ensure personalized attention and safety. Second, the diverse marine life—including sharks, turtles, rays, and tropical fish—delivers breathtaking underwater scenes. Third, the professional boat and crew with high-quality equipment and friendly service create a smooth, enjoyable day.
A key consideration? This experience is geared toward certified divers, so if you’re not yet qualified, you’ll need to plan for a different type of trip. Also, while the price of around $167.68 offers good value given the inclusions, additional equipment rentals can add to your costs.
This tour suits those with a moderate fitness level who love marine life, adventure, and small-group, guided experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned diver eager to explore new sites or a certified beginner, this trip could be the highlight of your Coffs Harbour holiday.
Key Points
- Expert Guided Experience: Small groups with experienced Divemasters ensure safety and personalized focus.
- Healthy Marine Biodiversity: Expect encounters with sharks, turtles, rays, and tropical fish in cleaner, warmer waters.
- All-Inclusive Tanks & Weights: Cost covers essential diving equipment, but other gear like wetsuits can be rented separately.
- Flexible Scheduling & Location: 6-hour trip departing at 7:30 am from Coffs Harbour’s Jetty Dive Centre.
- Excellent Customer Feedback: Consistently high ratings and detailed reviews highlight professionalism and memorable dives.
- Weather & Conditions: The tour is weather-dependent; poor conditions might lead to rescheduling or refunds.
Looking for more options in Coffs Harbour? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
A Closer Look at the Experience
Starting Point & Timing
The adventure begins early at Jetty Dive Centre, 398 Harbour Drive, with a 7:30 am check-in. The 6-hour trip includes a 30-minute boat ride to South Solitary Island, making timing critical for those wanting a full day of underwater exploration. The small group cap (max 25 travelers) helps keep things intimate and manageable, with most guests booking about 12 days in advance—a sign of demand and the tour’s popularity.
The Boat & Logistics
The journey out to South Solitary is on a well-maintained dive boat, often praised in reviews for comfort and equipment standards. The ride offers scenery and a chance to get excited for the underwater adventures ahead. Once at the island, guides select the best site based on prevailing conditions, ensuring optimal visibility and safety.
The Dives
Certified divers will take two guided dives, each lasting roughly 45 minutes, with a rest and snack break in between. The guides, such as Heidi and Lindsay mentioned in reviews, are known for their professionalism, friendliness, and deep knowledge of local marine life, making each dive both educational and exhilarating.
Marine Life & Underwater Highlights
Reviewers frequently mention seeing grey nurse sharks, leopard sharks, marble rays, turtles, and large schools of tropical fish. One diver described their first shark encounter as “large sharks,” highlighting how memorable these moments can be. Visibility often exceeds 30 meters, offering clear views of the underwater world, and the warm waters influenced by the East Australian Current make for comfortable conditions.
Equipment & Comfort
Tanks and weights are included in the tour price, a great convenience for travelers. However, divers need to organize their wetsuits, BCDs, regulators, masks, fins, and snorkels separately. The boat’s facilities, including a toilet, contribute positively to comfort during the trip—a small but appreciated detail.
Surface Interval & Refreshments
During the one-hour surface interval, guests enjoy tea, coffee, cup-a-soups (vegetarian options available), and snacks—an appreciated touch that keeps energy levels high. Reviewers consistently mention the caring, friendly crew who make sure everyone is well looked after.
Authentic Insights from Reviewers
Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the crew. One reviewer calls Heidi “reassuring, calming, and incredibly competent,” emphasizing the importance of guides who can make novice and experienced divers alike feel confident.
The boats themselves earn praise for being new, well-maintained, and equipped, with some reviewers mentioning the comfort and safety of the ride. The combination of quality equipment, knowledgeable guides, and beautiful underwater scenery creates a package that many see as excellent value for the price.
Special Moments & Unique Experiences
Several reviewers note the opportunity to see sharks, turtles, and rays, often mentioning how these encounters are awe-inspiring. One diver described it as “a sea safari,” capturing the essence of how lively and varied the marine life can be. The chance to witness local wildlife during a special turtle release event shows the trip’s connection to conservation efforts, adding an extra layer of meaning.
Weather & Conditions
While weather can be unpredictable, the crew’s ability to adapt and select the best site on the day is a clear strength. Even with weather challenges, reviewers say the team’s professionalism and communication kept everyone informed and comfortable.
Analyzing the Value
At just over $167, this tour offers two guided, fully equipped dives along with snacks and refreshments, which many believe makes it a good deal. The value amplifies when considering the quality of guides, the diversity of marine life, and the pristine waters of the Marine Park. For certified divers, this experience offers a chance to explore some of the most vibrant underwater habitats near Australia’s east coast.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is perfect for certified divers eager for a reliable, well-organized experience. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate small-group attention and a professional crew. If you’re interested in encountering sharks, turtles, and rays in warm, clear waters, this tour will likely exceed expectations. It’s also a great choice for travelers interested in combining marine wildlife with scenic boat rides.
However, if you’re not certified or prefer snorkelling, you’ll need to look into other options or prepare for additional equipment rentals. Also, those who dislike early mornings may find the 7:30 am start a bit challenging, but most reviewers agree it’s worth the effort.
Final Thoughts
The Double Dive to South Solitary Island from Coffs Harbour combines excellent value with professional guidance and stunning marine encounters. It offers a well-rounded adventure for certified divers seeking spectacular underwater sights in warm, clear waters. The inclusion of snacks, small groups, and high-quality boats makes it a comfortable and memorable choice—one that many repeat visitors swear by.
This tour truly delivers the chance to see the marine world at its best, making it ideal for seasoned divers and adventure lovers alike who want a reliable, high-quality experience. If marine biodiversity, expert guides, and pristine waters appeal to you, this trip is a fantastic addition to any Coffs Harbour itinerary.
FAQs
Do I need to be certified to join this tour?
Yes, proof of certification is required. If you’re not certified, you’ll need to look for beginner-friendly experiences or courses first.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes tanks and weights, snacks, tea, coffee, and cup-a-soups. However, you’ll need to organize your wetsuit, BCD, regulator, mask, fins, and snorkel separately.
How long is the trip?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 7:30 am, with about 30 minutes of boat travel each way.
What kind of marine life might I see?
Expect to see sharks (including grey nurse and leopard sharks), turtles, rays, and large schools of tropical and sub-tropical fish, often in very clear water.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather can cause cancellations or rescheduling. The crew is adept at adapting to conditions, and refunds are available if the trip is canceled due to weather.
What should I bring?
Apart from your certification proof, bring your personal diving gear if you prefer your own, and a sense of adventure. The boat provides basic refreshments and facilities.
Can I book the tour last-minute?
Most travelers book around 12 days in advance, but availability can vary. Booking early ensures you secure your spot, especially in peak seasons.
Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour limits groups to 25 guests, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Whether you’re chasing sharks, turtle encounters, or simply want to enjoy pristine waters, this tour offers a flexible, safe, and highly praised way to discover the marine riches of South Solitary Island.